Green Money-Saving Tip: Make Things Last

They don't make much like they used to but we can still do our part, through good maintenance measures, to extend the life of lots of stuff at home. Not only does it save money to use things longer, it's green. Some helpful maintenance tips after the jump...

Air Conditioners: Clean the filter every other week or as needed. Also periodically hose off the unit's back coils, if possible, to remove any debris.

Books: Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as well as excessive humidity or dryness. Store books vertically, next to others of similar height.

Down comforters, pillows, etc.: Goose down loses a bit of its airiness with dry cleaning or washing, so spot-clean whenever possible, and protect your comforter with a removable cover. Also shake and fluff bedding and jackets often to keep the down-feathers in them from becoming permanently squashed.